Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK

Before you can apply for Naturalisation as a British Citizen you first need to pass a ‘Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK’ test. Only on passing the test and gaining a Certificate of approval can you apply for British Citizenship.

This guide is designed for skilled professionals therefore it is assumed that applicants already speak English to the satisfactory level. Please note that if you are a Non EEA National and you possess an IELTS to a qualifying level for Tier 2 General you will meet the Knowledge of Language requirement. In this case you will simply need to pass the Life in the UK Test.

Are you a highly skilled IT, Engineering, Medical or Financial Services Professional? Do you need a Tier 2 General Visa to work in the UK? If so Commonwealth Contractors can help!

At Commonwealth Contractors we partner with Tier 2 Licensed Employers & Consultancies who may be prepared, where required, to sponsor an individual on a Tier 2 General Visa. To find out more about our solutions call now on 0330 390 9021 or Submit your Details and we will get right back to you!

What is the Life in the UK Test?

The Life in the UK test consists of 24 multiple choice questions which are based on Information detailed in the Test Handbook, titled ‘Life in the UK: A Journey to Citizenship’. All applicants should by a copy of the handbook and study it thoroughly prior to sitting the test. Questions cover a broad range of UK related subjects.

Where can I take the Life in the UK Test?

You can take the Life in the UK Test at one of 65 Life in the UK Test centres located around the United Kingdom. For information on your nearest test centre please see the UK Border Agency’s Life in the UK Website ( http://lifeintheuktest.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/).

It costs £50 including VAT to sit a Life in the UK Test. Fees must be paid before you begin the test. You also need to show photographic identification in order to gain access to the testing centre

What happens after I have sat the Life in the UK Test?

After you pass the Life in the UK Test you will receive a pass notification letter.

You must include the pass notification letter with your application for UK Naturalisation otherwise your application will be refused. The test centre will also email the UKBA an electronic copy within two working days of you passing the test. This notification will take at least two days. If you pass the test, you will not need to provide any further evidence of your language skills.

What if I previous sat a test for my Settlement application?

If you passed the Life in the UK test or completed an ESOL course to meet the ‘Knowledge of Language & Life’ requirement when you applied for Indefinite Leave to Remain (i.e. settlement), you do not need to show that you meet this requirement again.

Find out More

To find out more about our solutions call now on 0330 390 9021 or Submit your Details and we will get right back to you!